Intercourse: meaning, definitions and examples

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intercourse

[ˈɪntəkɔːs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

sexual activity

Intercourse refers to the physical act of sexual activity between individuals. It typically involves penetration and can occur between partners of the opposite or same sex. Intercourse is an intimate and often pleasurable experience that can strengthen the emotional bond between individuals.

Synonyms

coitus, copulation, sex.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
intercourse	Used in both formal and casual contexts. Can refer to communication between people, but often implies a more clinical or medical context when referring to sexual activity. The lecture covered the subject of human sexual intercourse. Effective communication requires open and honest verbal intercourse.
sex	Commonly used in everyday conversation and casual settings. Also used in a broader range of contexts, including gender, but often means sexual activity when used alone. They discussed their views on having safe sex. Many teens learn about sex education in school.
copulation	Mostly used in biological and zoological contexts to describe the act of mating in animals. Rarely used in casual conversations when referring to humans. The documentary showed the copulation rituals of various bird species. In biology, copulation is a critical part of the reproductive process.
coitus	Primarily used in medical or scientific contexts to describe sexual activity. It's less common in everyday conversation. The textbook detailed the phases of coitus in mammals. Clinical studies examine the frequency of coitus in different age groups.

Examples of usage

Consensual intercourse is an important aspect of a healthy relationship.
She felt a deep connection with her partner during intercourse.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

communication or dealings between individuals or groups

Intercourse can also refer to the exchange of communication or dealings between individuals or groups. It can involve the sharing of ideas, information, or goods. Effective intercourse in a business setting can lead to successful partnerships and collaborations.

Synonyms

communication, exchange, interaction.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
intercourse	Typically, 'intercourse' is used to refer to sexual relations, and using it in regular conversations can lead to misunderstandings or discomfort due to its strong connotation. It is best avoided in a general context. They discussed the negative consequences of casual sexual intercourse.
interaction	Used to describe the action or influence between people, groups, or things, often focusing on the reciprocal nature of the relationship. It suits casual and academic contexts. The interaction between the teacher and students was very dynamic. Their interaction on the project was productive.
communication	Best used when referring to the process of sharing information, thoughts, or feelings between people. It is suitable for both casual and formal situations. Communication is key to a successful relationship. Effective communication skills are essential in the workplace.
exchange	Applicable when referring to the act of giving and receiving information, ideas, or goods. Suitable for both formal and informal contexts, especially where the idea of mutual sharing is emphasized. There was a lively exchange of ideas at the conference. They exchanged phone numbers after the meeting.

Examples of usage

The two companies have established a good intercourse for mutual benefit.
Interpersonal intercourse is essential for building strong relationships.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term originates from the Latin word 'intercursare', meaning 'to run between' or 'to go between'.
Originally, 'intercourse' referred broadly to any interaction or exchange between people, not just sexual.
By the 14th century, it began to be commonly associated with sexual relations specifically.

Cultural Perspectives

In many cultures, the concept has historically symbolized not just physical connection, but also emotional and social bonds.
Some societies hold rituals around this expression of intimacy, viewing it as sacred and a part of relationships.
Different cultures have different traditions regarding the timing and significance of sexual intimacy in relationships.

Psychology

Research has shown that physical intimacy can enhance emotional connection and relationship satisfaction.
Communicating openly about desires and boundaries plays a crucial role in healthy relationships involving intimacy.
Intimacy can lead to increased feelings of trust and security between partners.

Legal Aspects

Laws surrounding intercourse vary widely across different jurisdictions, often related to age of consent and marriage.
In some cultures, sexual relations outside of marriage can have significant legal and social consequences.
Consent is a critical factor that is emphasized in legal discussions regarding intimacy.

Science

Physical intimacy can trigger the release of endorphins and oxytocin, hormones associated with pleasure and bonding.
Studies indicate that regular physical intimacy can contribute to overall physical health and well-being.
Biologically, human bodies are designed to connect physically, which is tied to reproductive purposes.

Translations

Translations of the word "intercourse" in other languages:

🇵🇹 intercurso

🇮🇳 सम्भोग

🇩🇪 Geschlechtsverkehr

🇮🇩 hubungan seksual

🇺🇦 статевий акт

🇵🇱 stosunek płciowy

🇯🇵 性交

🇫🇷 rapport sexuel

🇪🇸 relación sexual

🇹🇷 cinsel ilişki

🇰🇷 성교

🇸🇦 جماع

🇨🇿 pohlavní styk

🇸🇰 pohlavný styk

🇨🇳 性交

🇸🇮 spolni odnos

🇮🇸 samfarir

🇰🇿 жыныстық қатынас

🇬🇪 სქესობრივი აქტი

🇦🇿 cinsi əlaqə

🇲🇽 relación sexual

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,483 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

...
5480 exploitation
5481 server
5482 transform
5483 intercourse
5484 restraint
5485 ballot
5486 contended
...